Health Encyclopedia

Intussusception

Definition

Intussusception is a serious type of bowel obstruction. The intestine is shaped like a long tube. Intussusception occurs when one part of the intestine slides up into another part of the intestine. This part of the intestine becomes trapped and starts to swell. The swelling can block the flow of food. If severe, swelling can also cut off the blood supply to the area.

Treatment

Air Enema

In many cases, giving an air enema will correct intussusception. Air enema is preferred over water-soluble contrast or barium enema. This is often the preferred treatment when intussusception occurs in infancy. However, the test may cause a perforation to occur in the bowel. An enema should not be done if the bowel is perforated.

Surgery

Surgery may be required to release the trapped portion of the bowel and to clear the obstruction. If any bowel tissue has died due to gangrene, that part of the bowel may need to be removed.

Prevention

There are no guidelines for preventing intussusception because the cause is unknown. Talk to your doctor about avoiding vaccines that may cause a recurrence.

RESOURCES

Family Doctor—American Academy of Family Physicians
http://www.familydoctor.org

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
http://www.cdc.gov

CANADIAN RESOURCES

About Kids Health
http://www.aboutkidshealth.ca

Health Canada
http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca

References

Abdominal pain in infants.
American Academy of Pediatrics Healthy Children website. Available at:
http://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/abdominal/Pages/Abdominal-Pains-in-Infants.aspx.
Updated March 28, 2014. Accessed August 12, 2014.

Intussusception.
American Academy of Family Physicians Family Doctor website. Available at:
http://familydoctor.org/familydoctor/en/diseases-conditions/intussusception.html.
Updated March 2014. Accessed August 12, 2014.

Questions and answers about intussusception.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. Available at:
http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd-vac/rotavirus/intussusception-FAQs.htm.
Updated April 8, 2014. Accessed August 12, 2014.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.